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More changes may be in store for Astros' bullpen

More changes may be in store for Astros' bullpen

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Clemens slips on mound 0:30

6/28/13: Paul Clemens tries to pick off Peter Bourjos at second, but he slips and falls on the mound before he can release a throw

By Brian McTaggart
/
MLB.com |

TORONTO -- Don't be surprised if the Astros make more moves in the coming days to try to fix their bullpen. Manager Bo Porter said on Saturday the bullpen's recent struggles are "frustrating for everybody," and that includes general manager Jeff Luhnow.

Porter and Luhnow spoke on the phone following Friday's game because they had to make a roster move and put J.D. Martinez on the disabled list, but Porter said Luhnow has echoed some frustrations, as well. Houston's bullpen has allowed at least one run in 10 consecutive games (since July 13), posting an 8.01 ERA over that span, and has given away several late leads.

"He's just as frustrated as I am," Porter said. "It's one of those things where, again, you look at the options we have down there and those are the guys that are going to get the ball. It hasn't been good. That's just point blank. That's the best way I can put it."

Porter hinted changes could be made if the bullpen doesn't show signs of improvement.

"I think it's pretty obvious to everyone that they need to do a better job," said Porter. "This is a production-driven business. The longer you go without doing a good job, sooner or later somebody is going to have your job. If it doesn't bother you, then something is wrong with you. If you're asking me does it bother me? Of course, it bothers me.

"But, at the same time, I have a job to do to lead this team, and I can't be more point blank and clear than I've been. It's up to them to do a better job, and it's up to us to give them enough opportunity to where if they're not going to do a better job, then we need to go in another direction and find somebody else."